The Harris Department of Education’s (HCDE) Civic Engagement Team continues to deepen students’ understanding of the state’s legislative process, escorting Fortis Academy students on a visit to Rep. Lauren Ashley Simmons’ district office in Houston on May 2.

The trip is a continuation of the team’s initial trip in March to the Capitol in Austin.

Fortis students and staff were joined by HCDE Chief of Staff Danielle Bartz, Civic Engagement Coordinator Avery Spranger and Specialist Arnaldo Sandoval-Guerrero, and intern Saron Regassa. The group met Rep. Simmons’ district staff and learned of the team’s role in supporting local constituent services and managing day-to-day operations to assist efforts in Austin.